Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus has been distilled from at least 1788 when two doctors, John White and Dennis Cossiden, distilled Eucalyptus piperata for its use in treating chest problems and colic. This was in Australia where the Blue Mountains of New South Wales are so called because of the extraordinary blue haze that exudes from the resin of the eucalyptus gum and envelops the entire landscape. In such a powerfully aromatic environment, the medicinal qualities of this ancient tree would be hard to miss.

There is a wide range of eucalyptus varieties, any one of which would be a useful addition to a Basic Care Kit. Eucalyptus oil is steam-distilled from a number of different variations of the tree Eucalyptus spp. Each of these oils are from one specified chemical race, rather like Zinfadel wine is of one variety but each vineyard produces a Zinfadel of a particular quality and taste.

Generalities:

Eucalyptus is a marvelously versatile and useful oil. It cools the body in summer and protects it in winter. It is antinflammatory, antiseptic, antibiotic, diuretic, analgesic, and deodorizing. Research has proved its antiviral properties as well.

It is best known for its effectiveness against coughs and colds but is equally effective in the treatment of cystitis, candida, diabetes, and sunburn, while also being useful in veterinary care and as an insect repellent.

In general, Eucalyptus oil is used as a specific for the respiratory system. It is an antiseptic stimulant with a very specific balsamic odor that can only be described as smelling like Eucalyptus. This oil has great value in a vaporizer to stimulate and loosen bronchial secretions so that they can be coughed up, and is used primarily for coughs, colds, bronchial infections and asthma. Eucalyptus oil is very effective in killing bacteria and for clearing the system when used in a vaporizer. It is antiviral and cooling.

Eucalyptus citriodora

Also known as Lemon Eucalyptus or Lemon-Scented Gum. Eucalyptus citriodora has been used to perfume linen closets, and as an insect repellent, especially for cockroaches and silverfish.

• Application:

Diffuse or rub on bottom of feet or on location

• Fragrant Influence:

Has a sweet, strong, camphorous, fresh lemony scent. Citronella like. It promotes health, well being, purification, and healing.

• Safety Data:

If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician, Do not take internally.

Also used for asthma, athlete’s foot and other fungal infections, respiratory infections, cuts, dandruff, fevers, herpes, infectious skin conditions, laryngitis, scabs, shingles, sore throat, sores and wounds.

Eucalyptus dives

This species has a different, more specific antibacterial action than other eucalyptus oils.

• Application:

Apply topically or diffuse. Avoid direct inhalation.

• Fragrant Influence:

It promotes health, well being, purification, and healing.

• Safety Data:

If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician.

Containing low amounts of eucalyptol, Eucalyptus dives is mild and gentle. This variety is ideal for topical application.

Eucalyptus globulus

Also known as Blue-Gum or Tasmanian Blue Gum Eucalyptus. This essential oil usually has the highest 1,8-cineole levels and is heavily cultivated in Portugal, Spain and China.

For centuries Australian Aborigines used the leaves as a disinfectant to cover wounds. Shown by laboratory tests to be a powerful antimicrobial agent, E globulus contains a high percentage of eucalyptol (a key ingredient in many antiseptic mouth rinses). Often used for the respiratory system, eucalyptus has been investigated for its powerful insect repellent effects.

• Application:

Apply topically, diffuse, or use in a humidifier. 

• Fragrant Influence:

It promotes health, well being, purification, and healing. A fresh, strong, uplifting scent that is medicinal, herbal and clean. A typical Eucalyptus odor.

• Safety Data:

If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Do not take internally.

Eucalyptus trees have been planted throughout parts of North Africa to successfully block the spread of malaria. According to Jean Valnet, MD, a solution of 2% eucalyptus oil sprayed in the air will kill 70% of airborne staph bacteria. Some doctors still use solutions of eucalyptus oil in surgical dressings.

This oil may be used for aches and pains, acne, allergies, arthritis, bronchitis, burns, decongestant, respiratory infections, cystitis, endometriosis, increasing energy, gonorrhea, inflammation of the ear, eye, and sinus, malaria, rheumatism, respiratory infections, skin and throat infection or sores, ulcers, vaginitis, and wounds.

Eucalyptus polybractea

Used for acne and cystitis.

• Application:

Diffuse or apply topically, or use in a humidifier

• Fragrant Influence:

It promotes health, well being, purification, and healing.

• Safety Data:

If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Do not take internally.

Containing 95% Eucalyptol, Eucalyptus polybractea is one of the most potent of the Eucalyptus oils. Eucalyptol is a well known constituent in dental products and insect repellents.  Anti-infectious, antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and insect repellent. Has traditionally been used topically to support healthy respiratory function.

Eucalyptus radiata

Also known as Narrow-Leaved Peppermint. This is thought to be the most therapeutic Eucalyptus essential oil. An antimicrobial oil studied for its action against viruses. This oil is used extensively for respiratory infections.

• Application: 

Diffuse or rub on bottom of feet or on location, or use in a humidifier.

• Fragrant Influence:

The scent is similar to globulus in that it is medicinal and clean, but also with peppery and camphorous aromas. It promotes health, well being, purification, and healing. 

• Safety Data:

If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Do not take internally.

This oil contains citrol, a constituent known for its cleansing abilities. When combined with bergamot, Eucalyptus radiata has been used effectively on herpes simplex. It may also help with acne, bronchitis, ear inflammation, endometriosis, nasal and sinus congestion, sinusitis, and vaginitis.

Information collected from various sources.